A young black bear’s Sunday outing through some of Shrewsbury’s busiest roads ended with a tranquilizer dart and a one-way ride out of town, officials said.
The bear was tranquilized on Walnut Street between Routes 9 and 20 after roaming near a shopping plaza, then loaded into a wildlife transport with bags of ice packed around its body to keep it cool. Town crews said the animal appeared to have been recently separated from its mother.
How crews found and moved the bear
According to the Shrewsbury Fire Department, the saga started when a passerby reported a lone bear crossing in front of Station 3 and disappearing into nearby woods. A few hours later, the same animal showed up at the 1000 Boston Turnpike plaza, where officials tracked it and ultimately tranquilized it on Walnut Street between Routes 9 and 20, as reported by Boston 25 News.
State wildlife: Young bears often wander
State wildlife officials say the bear’s wanderings are right in line with what they expect from young animals heading out on their own. The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife notes that the state’s black bear population has been expanding and that recently independent bears often drift into developed neighborhoods after leaving their mothers. The agency also offers guidance for homeowners on how to reduce conflicts. More information is available from MassWildlife.
Steps residents can take
Biologists say the best way to avoid a repeat performance in your backyard is to cut off the easy snacks. They urge residents to take down bird feeders, secure trash, and keep compost enclosed so it does not lure hungry bears. Electric fencing is recommended for chicken coops and other livestock, and officials say people should keep pets leashed and give any bear plenty of room.
As MassWildlife biologist Dave Wattles put it, “Bird feeders are like fast food for bears,” a blunt warning reported by WestfordCAT.
Why drivers and shoppers should pay attention
The bear’s appearance near a high-traffic plaza and two state routes is a not-so-subtle reminder that wildlife can pop up in familiar suburban hotspots, creating hazards for motorists and curious shoppers alike. Officials say residents who spot bears should contact local public-safety departments and MassWildlife rather than trying to handle the situation themselves.
For a broader look at increasing bear sightings in eastern Massachusetts and how the animals are spreading into new communities, see reporting from Boston.com.
.jpg){kind=link}